"We continue to attract an exceptional number of highly competitive candidates and we are honored by the interest they have shown in Stanford," said Richard H. Shaw, dean of admission and financial aid.

Students who apply through Stanford's restrictive early action program may consider all of their college options before responding.

Stanford notified all of the early applicants of its decisions – admitted, denied or deferred to the regular decision round – by email Friday afternoon.

More than 26,000 students are expected to apply for admission by Jan. 1.

Students admitted under both programs have until May 1 to accept Stanford's offers.